After a funeral, families often gather to share food, comfort one another, and remember the person who passed away. When planning or writing about this gathering, many people stop and ask the same question: Is it “repass” or “repast” for a funeral?
This confusion appears everywhere—on funeral programs, church announcements, emails, and even Google searches. People want to be respectful, correct, and professional during a sensitive time. Using the wrong word can feel awkward or embarrassing, especially in formal or religious settings.
The reason people search for “repass or repast for funeral” is simple. Both words sound similar, both relate to food, and both appear in funeral contexts. However, they do not mean the same thing. One word is traditional and widely accepted. The other is a common mistake that spread through habit and repetition.
This article gives a clear answer, explains where the confusion started, and shows which term you should use based on your audience. By the end, you will know the correct word to use in programs, emails, announcements, and online posts—without doubt.
What Is a Repast for a Funeral
A repast for a funeral is a meal shared by family, friends, and guests after a funeral or memorial service. It is a time for people to gather, eat together, and offer comfort to one another. The repast usually takes place at a home, church hall, restaurant, or community center. Food may be simple or formal, depending on family tradition and culture. More than just a meal, a funeral repast helps people talk, remember stories, and support the grieving family. It creates a calm space after an emotional service. In many cultures, offering food is a sign of care and respect. That is why the repast is an important part of the funeral process. It allows mourners to connect, share memories, and begin healing together in a warm and supportive setting.
Repass or Repast for Funeral – Quick Answer
The correct term is repast, not repass.
A repast is a meal, especially one shared after a funeral or memorial service.
Repass is a different word and is incorrect in this context.
Correct example:
- “The family invites you to a repast following the funeral service.”
Incorrect example:
- “Please join us for a repass after the burial.”
The Origin of Repass or Repast for Funeral
The word repast comes from Middle English and Old French. It has meant “a meal” for hundreds of years. Historically, repasts were shared after important events, including funerals, to offer comfort and community.
The word repass, however, means “to pass again” or “to review.” It has no historical link to meals or funerals.
So why the confusion?
- The words sound similar
- Repass is often spoken instead of written
- The mistake spread through churches and communities
- It became common through repetition, not correctness
Over time, repass became a widely used error, especially in spoken language.
British English vs American English Spelling
This is not a spelling difference between British and American English. Both language systems use repast for a funeral meal.
| Term | American English | British English | Funeral Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repast | ✅ Correct | ✅ Correct | ✅ Yes |
| Repass | ❌ Incorrect | ❌ Incorrect | ❌ No |
Important:
This confusion is about word meaning, not spelling style.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Your choice depends on correctness, not location.
- United States: Use repast
- UK & Commonwealth: Use repast
- Global or formal writing: Use repast
If you are writing:
- Funeral programs
- Church bulletins
- Obituaries
- Professional emails
Always use “repast.” It is respectful, correct, and widely accepted.
Common Mistakes with Repass or Repast for Funeral
Here are the most frequent errors people make:
- Using “repass” instead of “repast”
❌ Wrong: “Join us for the repass.”
✅ Right: “Join us for the repast.” - Assuming it is regional slang
Repass is not a regional variant. It is simply incorrect. - Mixing both words in the same text
Stay consistent and correct. - Avoiding the term completely due to confusion
Repast is safe and formal.
Repass or Repast for Funeral in Everyday Examples
Email:
- “A repast will be held at the community hall after the service.”
News article:
- “Family and friends gathered for a repast to honor her memory.”
Social media:
- “Thank you to everyone who attended the repast today.”
Formal writing:
- “The repast provided comfort and fellowship following the funeral.”
Repass or Repast for Funeral – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows that “repast funeral” appears far more often in formal writing and official notices.
- Repast is popular in:
- Obituaries
- Church websites
- Funeral home pages
- News articles
- Repass appears mainly in:
- Informal speech
- Community posts
- Incorrect online usage
The trend shows growing awareness that repast is the correct term.
Comparison Table: Keyword Variations
| Keyword | Correct | Meaning | Funeral Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repast | ✅ Yes | A meal | ✅ Correct |
| Repass | ❌ No | To pass again | ❌ Incorrect |
| Funeral repast | ✅ Yes | Meal after funeral | ✅ Correct |
| Funeral repass | ❌ No | Incorrect phrase | ❌ Incorrect |
FAQs: Repass or Repast for Funeral
1. Is it repass or repast for a funeral?
The correct term is repast. “Repass” is a common mistake and is not correct.
2.Is repast a Black thing?
No. A repast is a cultural tradition found in many communities, not limited to any race.
3.Who pays for a repast?
Usually the family of the deceased pays, but churches or friends may help.
4.Is repass a Catholic thing?
No. Catholics use the word repast; “repass” is not a religious term.
5.Can Catholics go to heaven if cremated?
Yes. The Catholic Church allows cremation and believes it does not affect salvation.
6.What are three things prohibited under the Funeral Rule?
Funeral homes cannot force package purchases, misrepresent legal requirements, or refuse itemized pricing.
7.What 3 colors not to wear to a funeral?
Bright red, neon colors, and flashy patterns are usually avoided.
8.What body parts don’t burn in cremation?
Bones do not fully burn; they are processed into ashes after cremation.
9.Why shouldn’t you go straight home after a funeral?
Gathering with others helps emotional support and eases the transition after loss.
Conclusion
The confusion around repass or repast for funeral is common, but the answer is clear. Repast is the correct and proper word. It has deep historical roots, clear meaning, and wide acceptance in formal and religious settings. Repass, while often heard, is incorrect and should be avoided in writing.
When dealing with funerals, words matter. They reflect care, respect, and professionalism. Whether you are writing a funeral program, sending an email, posting on social media, or creating an obituary, using repast ensures clarity and correctness.
There is no British or American spelling debate here. Both follow the same rule. If you want to communicate clearly and honor tradition, repast is always the right choice.
